Yorgos Lanthimos Makes Bold Statement at Venice with Palestinian Flag Pin

At the 82nd Venice International Film Festival (Venezia 82), acclaimed Greek filmmaker Yorgos Lanthimos made headlines not just for his much-anticipated film Bugonia, but also for a subtle yet powerful political gesture. During the film’s official press conference, Lanthimos appeared wearing a Palestinian flag pin, drawing immediate attention from journalists, festival attendees, and audiences online.

The director, celebrated for his daring storytelling in films such as Poor Things and The Favourite, used the global stage of Venice to quietly but unmistakably show solidarity with the Palestinian cause. In a festival known for its glamorous red carpets and high-profile premieres, Lanthimos’ choice to wear the pin stood out as a reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crisis, sparking conversations that extended beyond cinema.

While the filmmaker refrained from making a direct political statement during the press conference, his visual message resonated deeply. Many praised his action as a courageous use of visibility, especially given the highly international and politically charged atmosphere of Venice. Social media quickly amplified the moment, with photos of Lanthimos and his Palestinian flag pin circulating widely under hashtags like #Venezia82 and #StandWithPalestine.

Lanthimos’ latest film, Bugonia, has already been described by critics as provocative, genre-defying, and deeply human—a continuation of his reputation for pushing boundaries. But at Venezia 82, it was his quiet act of solidarity that made perhaps the loudest statement of all.